The Pentax OptioS60 digital camera has been announced. The Pentax Optio S60 is a 6.36 megapixel model with a 3x optical zoom lens equivalent to 35-106mm in 35mm format. The Pentax S60 has a large 2.5 inch LCD screen, uses AA batteries and offers 12 different scene modes. Price and availability of the Pentax OptioS60 to be announced.

Pentax UK Press Release

Solving the Christmas Gift Dilemma - the Pentax OptioS60 - The perfect introduction to digital photography this Christmas

The latest addition to the award-winning range of Optio digital compact cameras, the OptioS60 offers high-quality imaging performance with 6.0 effective megapixels and 3x optical zoom. Simple to use, yet offering superior image capabilities, it’s ideal for the beginner and slightly more experienced photographer alike. The Auto Select mode selects the most suitable shooting mode for the environment, making it even easier to take digital photos. Retailing for less than £250, the OptioS60 is the perfect gift for budding photographers this Christmas.

The OptioS60 is also compatible with AA batteries, which, combined with its lightweight body, makes the camera a great choice for the discerning traveller.  The camera also features a large, 2.5 inch LCD monitor, making shooting and playback simple and your result easy to view.

The Canon IXUS 750 and Canon IXUS 55 compact digital cameras are announced. The Canon IXUS 750 has 7.1 megapixels, 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. The Canon IXUS 55 has 5.0 megapixels, 2.5 inch LCD screen and 3x optical zoom lens. Both the IXUS 750 and IXUS 55 use Canon’s Digic II processor, as used in their high-end digital SLR cameras. The Canon IXUS 750 and Canon IXUS 55 will be available from September 2005 for £419 and £329 RRP inc. VAT respectively/ €599 and €489 RRP inc VAT respectively.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon expands its Digital IXUS range with two stylish new models – the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of two new additions to its Digital IXUS range - the Digital IXUS 750 and Digital IXUS 55. As the Digital IXUS flagship, the Digital IXUS 750 maintains the style and sophistication for which Digital IXUS is renowned. The elegant ‘perpetual curve’ design returns and is available in two stunning finishes – Silver Grey and Satin Beige. Featuring a new interpretation of the iconic ‘box and circle’ design, the Digital IXUS 55 has a unique starburst effect radiating from the lens ring, and is finished in silver-white palladium plating on stainless steel.

The Canon PowerShot S80 compact digital camera is announced. The Canon S80 is an 8 megapixel update of the S70 and offers a 28-100mm f/2.8-5.3 lens, 2.5 inch LCD screen and Canon’s advanced image processor, DIGIC II. The Canon PowerShot S80 is available from October 2005 priced at £499.00 RRP inc VAT/ €719.00 RRP inc VAT.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon launches the new look 8.0 Megapixel PowerShot S80

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the release of the 8.0 Megapixel PowerShot S80 – the new flagship to its S-Series PowerShot range. The camera’s rich feature set includes a wide-angle 28-100 mm f/2.8-5.3 (3.6x) optical zoom lens incorporating Canon’s UA lens technology, the same DIGIC II processor found in Canon’s professional series Digital SLRs and an oversize 2.5” LCD. A striking, contemporary finish complements the compact body of the camera, which is considerably smaller than its predecessor – the PowerShot S70.

The Canon IXUS i Zoom digital camera is announced. The Canon IXUS i Zoom is a 5 megapixel model with a 2.4x optical zoom lens and 1.8 inch LCD screen. The IXUS i Zoom uses Canon’s DIGIC II image processor and is supplied with a docking station. The Canon IXUS i zoom will be available from September 2005 for £319 RRP inc. VAT/ €479 RRP inc. VAT.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon’s new Digital IXUS i zoom – now with an optical zoom lens

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the Digital IXUS i zoom. Building on the Digital IXUS i 5 performance and chic design, the Digital IXUS i zoom adds a 2.4x optical zoom and embraces the perpetual curve design of its big brother, the Digital IXUS 750. The sleek and compact Digital IXUS i zoom comes with 5.0 Megapixels and DIGIC II processing for high image quality and a USB 2.0 Hi-Speed interface for fast transfer speeds. The supplied Camera Station allows for easy connectivity to the PC, printer and television – perfect for viewing contemporary slide shows created by the camera.  The Camera Station also charges the camera when docked. The Digital IXUS i zoom is available in an array of striking colours: Jet (Black), Sahara (Gold), Cranberry (Red) and Ultra-violet. A silky finish completes the look and feel of this ultimate digital accessory.

The Canon PowerShot A620 and Canon PowerShot A610 compact digicams are announced. The The Canon A620 has a 7.1 megapixel sensor, 2 inch LCD screen and 4x optical zoom lens equivalent to 35–140 mm focal length. The Canon A610 also offers the same size screen and lens, but has a 5 megapixel sensor instead. The PowerShot A620 and PowerShot A610 are available from September 2005 priced £319.00 RRP inc. VAT and £279.00 RRP inc. VAT / €479.00 RRP inc. VAT and €399 RRP inc. VAT respectively.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon launches new A-series PowerShots A620 and A610 – with G-series performance

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of its latest high performance compact digital still cameras, the PowerShot A620 and PowerShot A610. With 7.1 and 5.0 Megapixels, respectively, the cameras incorporate a host of high-end features normally reserved for G-series PowerShots. DIGIC II processors drive a fast, responsive performance, and – in combination with the cameras’ 4x optical zoom lenses – deliver superior image quality. A wide range of manual, automatic and special scene modes offer flexibility, creative control, and simplicity when required.

The Canon PowerShot A410 compact digital camera is announced. The Canon A410 is an entry level model with 3.2 megapixels and 1.5 inch LCD screen which replaces the A400. The Canon A410 offers a 3.2x optical zoom lens and includes Canon’s renowned DIGIC II image processor as used in their high-end digital SLR cameras. The Canon PowerShot A410 will be available from September 2005 priced £139.00 RRP inc. VAT/ €199.00 RRP inc. VAT.

Canon UK Press Release

Canon’s new entry level PowerShot – the A410 now with DIGIC II power

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the PowerShot range-opening 3.2 Megapixel PowerShot A410. Replacing the popular PowerShot A400, the PowerShot A410 has a bold new design and incorporates improved operability and performance through DIGIC II processing, and a 3.2x optical zoom with maximum aperture of f/2.8 – f/5.1. It is housed in a smaller, more compact and robust body.

Featuring 5 point AiAF auto focus and a range of shooting modes, the A410’s ease of use makes it the ideal camera for those making the change to digital.

The Praktica Luxmedia 5303 is announced. The Praktica 5303 is a 5.1 megapixel digital camera with 3x optical zoom lens, 2.4 inch LCD screen and 16mb internal memory. The Praktica Luxmedia 5303 also offers a built-in MP3 player.

Praktica Press Release

Luxmedia 5303 – Melodic colours

Not many inventions in the field of entertainment electronics have influenced the way we consume media in the last couple of years. Digital cameras or MP3 players are certainly on top of the list. Both share an easy to use handling and the possibility to erase unwanted recordings in an instant. That way they quickly became favourite gadgets and must-haves to either escape from the reality or to keep it.

With its brandnew Luxmedia 5303 Praktica is fusing both technologies into one high-end product, which fullfills the highest dreams. Behind a 3x optical zoom a 5.1 mega pixels CCD sensor assures high quality images that can be viewed on the 2.4” TFT screen immediately. The dashing black body smoothes the composition and makes the camera a real eye-catcher.

The Praktica Luxmedia 5203 is announced. The Praktica 5203 is a 5.1 megapixel digital camera with 3x optical zoom lens, 2.4 inch LCD screen and 32mb internal memory.

Praktica Press Release

Luxmedia 5203 – The world on 61 millimeters

Small pictures were yesterday. The times of focussing an object through a tiny monitor are definately over. Gone are days that left you with uncertainty if the pictures you took were really good. With 2.4” screensize (ca. 6.1 cm) Praktica introduces with it’s Luxmedia 5203 a new way of taking photos.

A compact design and an intelligibly organized menu allows an intuitive handling of this high-quality product. The symbiosis of a 3x optical zoom and a 5.1 mega pixels CCD sensor results in razor-sharp images which are instantly viewable on the 61 millimeters monitor.

Hungarian website Index Digicam have reviewed the new Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60, which has a large 2.5inch LCD screen (but no optical viewfinder), 5 megapixels and a sliding lens cover.

Website: Index Digicam - Konica Minolta DiMAGE X60 Review

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Imaging Resource have published their review of the Fujifilm FinePix Z1 Zoom, a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with a large 2.5inch LCD screen and 3 optical zoom.

“The Fujifilm FinePix Z1 is among Fujifilm’s latest ultracompact digital cameras, and offers a great combination of ease of use, style, and image quality (particularly at higher ISO sensitivities). Based on a fifth-generation Super CCD HR chip design, the Fujifilm Z1 offers good resolution in a pocket-friendly body, with a resolution of 5.1 megapixels. With a prism-folded 3x zoom lens that contributes to the camera’s compact size, and straightforward user interface, the Fuji Z1 is an excellent take-anywhere point and shoot model that should appeal to novice users and more experienced shooters alike. It has a refined feel that is best experienced to appreciate.”

Website: Imaging Resource - Fujifilm FinePix Z1 Zoom Review

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DCResource have just reviewed the eagerly-anticipated Panasonic DMC-FZ30. This is an 8 megapixel compact digital camera with a 12x Leica optical zoom lens equivalent to 35-420mm, optical image stabilizer, addition of a manual zoom ring and rotating LCD screen with 235,000 pixels.

“The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 is darn close to the perfect ultra zoom camera. It has a fast 12X optical zoom lens (though not as fast as on its predecessor), optical image stabilization, full manual controls, a high resolution LCD and electronic viewfinder, and a VGA movie mode. The big disappointment on the FZ30 was the higher than average noise levels, especially at high ISO sensitivities.”

Website: DCResource - Panasonic DMC-FZ30 Review

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DIWA member and Slovenian website e-fotografija have published a comparative review of the Fujifilm FinePix Z1 Zoom, Nikon Coolpix S1 and Sony Cybershot T5 compact digital cameras.

Website: e-fotografija - Fujifilm Z1, Nikon S1, Sony T5 Review

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DigitalCameraInfo have also reviewed the Pentax OptioS5z, which has a large 2.5 inch LCD screen, 3x optical zoom lens and a 5 megapixel sensor.

“The Pentax S5z surprised us with its substandard color performance, earning just a 3.73 overall color score. Many colors produced by the camera were extremely under-saturated, resulting in a dull overall color pallet, while others stayed completely from their intended hue. Cooler tones, namely tones in the blue and green channels, were grossly inaccurate, and some orange tones shifted colors to near white (#16 and green #11). While many compact digital cameras earn low scores on color accuracy tests, none we’ve tested so far have strayed so significantly from the ideal tones. The S5z, like many compact cameras, will consistently produce images with inaccurate color tones; however, the problem is severe enough on the S5z to render many of the produced images unusable.”

Website: DigitalCameraInfo - Pentax OptioS5z Review

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CNET take a look at the new Pentax OptioS5z, which has a large 2.5 inch LCD screen, 3x optical zoom lens and a 5 megapixel sensor.

” Pentax seems to be taking the penta in its name to heart these days. With no fewer than six 5-megapixel models on the market, the company contributes even more than most manufacturers to this burgeoning group of digital cameras. The lead entry is the Pentax Optio S5z, a pocket-size camera offering a 3X optical zoom, high-resolution movies, and a large LCD. The Pentax’s feature set goes a step beyond point-and-shoot but lacks the manual exposure controls that would take the Optio S5z to the next level.”

Website: CNET - Pentax OptioS5z Review

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Danish website Akam.dk have just reviewed the new HP Photosmart R817, which offers 5 megapixels and a 5x optical zoom lens.

Website: Akam.dk - HP Photosmart R817 Review

Website: Read my HP Photosmart R817 Review

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PCMagazine have posted a less than enthusiastic review of the new 7 megapixel Samsung Digimax V700.

“Samsung has been bold recently, laying out plans to penetrate the digital camera market and position itself among the leaders, up with Canon, Nikon, and Sony. But it certainly won’t get there making mediocre cameras like the 7.1-megapixel Digimax V700. Given the problems we found in testing and using this compact, the V700 falls far short of its competition.”

Website: PCMagazine - Samsung Digimax V700 Review

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DIWA member and Norwegian website Digit.no have published their review of the Nikon D50, a new affordable 6.1 megapixel digital SLR.

Website: Digit.no - Nikon D50 Review

Website: Read my Nikon D50 Review

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DIWA member Steves Digicams have reviewed the new Fujifilm FinePix F10 Zoom, which has an ISO range of 80 to 1600, Super CCD sensor with 6.1 megapixels and a 2.5 inch LCD screen.

“With features intended to overcome the limitations of prior generations of cameras, the FinePix F10 is refinement of Fuji’s entry entry in the automatic point-n-shoot digicam market. It combines a 6.1-megapixel fifth generation Super CCD HR image sensor, a new Real Photo processor and 3x optical zoom lens with features that help the photographer capture images that other cameras might miss. Novice and intermediate photographers will find the F10’s automatic and scene modes easy to use, but the camera lacks the manual, shutter-priority and aperture-priority exposure modes demanded by advanced users.”

Website: Steves Digicams - Fujifilm FinePix F10 Zoom Review

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Steves Digicams have just reviewed the Fujifilm FinePix Z1 Zoom, a 5 megapixel compact digital camera with a large 2.5inch LCD screen and 3 optical zoom.

“Aiming to combine equal measures of form and function, the Fuji FinePix Z1 is as much a fashion statement as it is a photographic instrument. It combines a 5.1-megapixel fifth generation Super CCD HR image sensor, a new Real Photo processor and 3x optical zoom lens into a sleek, stylish package that will look equally at home in your jeans pocket or Louis Vitton bag. Novice and intermediate photographers will find the Z1’s automatic and scene modes easy to use, but the camera lacks the manual, shutter-priority and aperture-priority exposure modes demanded by advanced users.”

Website: Steves Digicams - Fujifilm FinePix Z1 Zoom Review

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AnandTech have compared 4 new ultra-compact digital cameras, including the Canon Digital IXUS 50, a 5 megapixel digital camera with stainless steel finish that is Canon’s smallest ever 5.0 Megapixel optical zoom camera (also known as the SD400) (found via Digicamera.net).

“In our review, we discovered that with the exception of the Olympus IR-300, the other three cameras were very competitive in many respects. In terms of pure speed, the Canon SD400 and Sony T33 were top performers. When it came to image quality, the Canon SD400 was the best followed closely by the Nikon S1. Overall, the Olympus IR-300 fell short on its promises. We feel that given its performance and lack of features, it is not really on par with the competition. Read on for our in-depth coverage of each camera.”

Website: AnandTech - Ultra-Compact Digicam Review